(Feb. 12, 2001) Wayne Mello is the Executive Director of Robert Half, a placement service for accounting and finance professionals. In this interview, Mello highlights the do's and don'ts of the job interview process, including what to bring, the difference between cocky and confident, and how to keep your composure after making a mistake.

	Introduction
It is a difficult enough task landing an interview, let alone making it through AND getting a job offer. An interview is not a one-step process; it entails physical and mental preparation prior to, during and after the interview. Wayne Mello, executive director of Robert Half, joins us today to discuss how to prepare for an interview related to the accounting industry.

	Question 1
Perhaps you could start us off by telling us a bit more about yourself and Robert Half/Accountemps.

	Question 2
First, what are the qualities companies are looking for from the current crop of graduates? Does the current crop of graduates measure up?

	Question 3
How should candidates prepare for an interview?

	Question 4
What can or should a candidate bring to the interview?

	Question 5
In the sense that all candidates must "sell" themselves to a company, what sales tools or techniques would you recommend?

	Question 6
What can job candidates do to differentiate themselves? What immediately turns a company off from a candidate?

	Question 7
Pertaining to the accounting market, what skills really stand out on a job candidate's resume? In other words, what most impresses employers?

	Question 8
Candidates should be confident, but there is a fine line between confident and cocky. How does one avoid crossing that line?

	Question 9
Do candidates often forget the importance of body language?

	Question 10
How can a candidate tell if the interview has gone well or not?

	Question 11
What kind of follow-up should take place after the interview by the candidate?

	Question 12
If a candidate has had bad-luck with interviews or just hasn't received a job offer, what should she do?

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